The Azimio la Umoja Coalition has been renamed the Ukombozi Alliance in a fresh political development ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The new name was announced on Monday, September 21, by Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka during a press briefing attended by fellow coalition principals, including Siaya Governor James Orengo.
"Moving forward, this alliance shall no longer be called the Azimio La Umoja Coalition; we shall be called the Ukombozi Alliance," Kalonzo stated.
According to Kalonzo, the new alliance will operate under the political philosophy and banner of 'One Term, One Team, One Coalition'.
He announced that the alliance will begin implementing the new strategy on Tuesday, September 22, when its leaders are expected to meet representatives of the Jubilee Party to deliberate on the way forward and make key political decisions.
Kalonzo also revealed that the instruments of power belonging to the former Azimio la Umoja outfit would be formally handed over to the Ukombozi Alliance in the coming days as part of the transition.
The Wiper leader further announced plans to expand the new alliance by bringing additional political parties on board. Among those expected to join is the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP), led by former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga, who is seeking the presidency in 2027, is also expected to join the alliance through his United Green Movement Party (UGM).
Kalonzo said several other parties would also become part of the new political formation, with details of their formal entry expected to be announced as the Ukombozi Alliance completes the transition from Azimio.
Kalonzo also welcomed the High Court's decision on Monday to declare unconstitutional sections of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act that restrict retired presidents from engaging in active politics or holding positions in political parties.
The Wiper Party leader used the ruling to criticise President William Ruto, accusing him of unnecessarily targeting former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Kalonzo argued that the 2027 General Election would not be a contest between Ruto and his predecessor, noting that Uhuru had deliberately avoided being pulled into the political confrontation.
He said referring to the former president as a 'rebel leader' amounted to violating the Constitution, which Ruto swore to protect and uphold.
"It is not, and you can see President Uhuru Kenyatta, apart from coming out and laughing it off, and talking about the Sponyo, he refuses to be drawn into that contest, because the contest will be between William Ruto and the leaders who are challenging him and the people of Kenya. It will not be a contest between him and Uhuru Kenyatta," Kalonzo stated.
"So, when you call Uhuru Kenyatta a rebel leader, you are actually acting in breach of the constitution, which you, Mr.Ruto, swore to uphold."
